Navgrahas

The life of an individual is guided by the charismatic movement of nine heavenly bodies known as planets or graham of the Solar system. Each of the Navagrahas represents 9 Planetary Gods in the Hindu Religion. Hindus worship them as Gods. These 9 planets of the Solar System are the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu.

Following the Navgrahas in Hindu astrology is a way for individuals to gain insight into their lives and understand various influences that might affect them. Here are some reasons people choose to follow this system:

1. Self-Awareness: Understanding the positions and influences of the Navgrahas can help individuals gain insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and overall personality traits.

2. Life Guidance: Astrology guides how to navigate different aspects of life, including career, relationships, and personal growth. It can offer advice on making decisions that align with one's astrological influences.

3. Predictive Insights: By analyzing the Navgrahas, astrologers can offer predictions about future events or trends, helping individuals prepare for potential challenges or opportunities.

4. Remedial Measures: Astrology often includes remedies or practices to mitigate negative influences and enhance positive ones. These can include rituals, mantras, or charitable actions aimed at balancing the energies of the Navgrahas.

5. Cultural and Spiritual Beliefs: For many, astrology is an integral part of their cultural and spiritual practices. Following the Navgrahas can be a way to connect with traditional beliefs and practices.

6. Personal Growth: Some people use astrology as a tool for personal development, aiming to improve their lives by aligning their actions with their astrological insights.

Ultimately, following the Navgrahas is a personal choice, and its relevance can vary depending on individual beliefs and experiences.

Celebrating the Navgrahas often involves specific rituals, festivals, and practices dedicated to these celestial bodies.

Here are some common ways to celebrate or honor the Navgrahas:

1. Navgraha Puja: Special worship ceremonies (pujas) are performed for each of the nine planets, usually at temples or at home. These pujas involve offerings, prayers, and rituals to seek blessings and mitigate negative influences.

2. Fairs and Festivals: Some regions have fairs and festivals dedicated to the Navgrahas. These events might include processions, cultural performances, and community gatherings.

3. Astrological Observances: Individuals might observe certain days or periods that are considered auspicious or significant for specific Navgrahas. For example, Saturdays are often associated with Shani (Saturn), and devotees may fast or perform special rituals on this day.

4. Charitable Acts: In astrology, making charitable donations or performing acts of kindness is believed to help balance the effects of certain planetary influences. People may donate to causes related to the planets or support those in need.

5. Special Offerings: Each Navgraha is associated with specific offerings. For instance, offerings of sesame seeds might be made to Shani (Saturn), while sweets and milk might be offered to Chandra (Moon).

6. Astrological Consultations: Some people celebrate by consulting astrologers to gain insights into their horoscopes and make plans for improving their lives based on astrological advice.

Out of the nine planet gods, seven are named after the names of the planets of the solar system and the other two gods are the names of demons who gained a place in the pantheon by a trick.

These planets and their position is the base of Hindu astronomy. Hindus firmly believe that the possibilities and potentialities of an individual depend upon planetary position at the time of a person's birth.

We see navagrahas complementing main deities in some temples whereas some temples are exclusively meant to worship planet god only.

The Navgrahas, or "Nine Planets" in Hindu astrology, are celestial bodies that are believed to influence various aspects of life. They include:

1. Surya (Sun)
2. Chandra (Moon)
3. Mangal (Mars)
4. Budh (Mercury)
5. Jupiter (Jupiter)
6. Shukra (Venus)
7. Shani (Saturn)
8. Rahu (North Node of the Moon)
9. Ketu (South Node of the Moon)

Each planet is associated with specific traits and influences, and their positions in the horoscope are thought to impact one's life and destiny. In Hindu astrology, the Navgrahas hold significant importance as they are believed to impact various aspects of an individual’s life.

Here's a brief overview of their significance: